A Beginner’s Guide to Buying Cannabis

At Denver Dispensary, we take pride in offering a diverse selection of both medical and recreational cannabis. Our high-quality cannabis is available in a rotating menu of strains to satisfy the unique preferences and needs of our customers. For instance, some customers seek Sativa-dominant strains for a euphoric, energetic high. While others prefer Indica strains to manage symptoms of stress. And if the last two sentences didn’t make a lot of sense to you, then you’re one of many people who still haven’t found their specific go-to.

If you’re new to buying weed and are feeling overwhelmed by the plethora of information regarding strain, potency, and quality — don’t fret! The cannabis experts here at Denver Dispensary have gathered up some tips to guide new customers through their shopping experience. Here are some things to look for!

Trichomes

Top shelf, high-grade cannabis is unmistakable once you’ve seen it. Trichomes (those tiny crystalline hairs) can be seen covering the buds of a high-quality flower, lending it a “frosty” appearance. These trichomes are laden with cannabinoids (like THC) and are responsible for much of the buds’ potency. Medium grade cannabis may still present with some trichomes, although they may be more sparse. Trichome color can range from a translucent white to a deep amber.

Scent

High-quality cannabis should have a loud scent. When you’re shopping at Denver Dispensary, smelling for quality is unnecessary. However, we suggest you find a strain that your nose is attracted to. If you find yourself salivating when smelling citrusy weed, then you’re probably going to enjoy smoking it, too. So why does cannabis smell differently from one strain to another? Well, that’s because of terpenes! Now before you go out there and read up on the 200+ cannabis terpenes (don’t do that), here are the 5 key terpenes and their scents below.

Pinene: Piney

Myrcene: Musky

Limonene: Citrusy

Linalool: Floral

Caryophyllene: Spicy

Terpenes

Many cannabis users come in and simply ask us for our most potent (highest testing in THC) strain, but one of the things they’re not taking into account is terpenes. Cannabis terpenes not only insert many delicious scents and flavors into your weed, but they also work with receptor sites within the brain and central nervous – which affect your high!

For instance, if you’re seeking relief from symptoms of anxiety, look for strains high in Limonene or Linalool. Research suggests that Limonene can increase serotonin and dopamine levels. (While also acting as a bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory, too!) Linalool is found in lavender, so you know that is one relaxing terpene! Or maybe you’re looking for help sleeping, then perhaps look for a strain high in Myrcene, which has been shown to work as a muscle relaxer and sedative in mice. Caryophyllene has been found to aid in digestion, and Pinene has been reported to aid in mental function!

Sativa, Indica or Hybrid?

THC-possessing cannabis is classified into two main species – Indica or Sativa. Distinguishing between the properties of an Indica strain versus a Sativa strain can be tricky to remember at first. Understanding the properties of both species of cannabis will help guide you toward the effects you hope to obtain from consuming marijuana.

Indica strains are known to have a “body high,” — that physically-sedating effect. These strains are most often enjoyed at small get-togethers or before sleep as a nightcap. Sativa strains are most known for their cerebral effect, or “head high.” Their effects usually pair well with social gatherings, physical activity, and creative projects.

Aside from the major differences in the physical attributes between Sativa and Indica strain plants (Sativa plants tend to be taller and less leafy than the short, stocky Indica), the two species also differ in origin. Indica plants originated in Afghanistan, while Sativa strains come from regions close to the equator, such as Thailand, Mexico, and Colombia. And while you’re welcome to ask us about the origins of our strains and the physical attributes of the plant, you can also just ask your budtender if the buds you’re looking at are classified as Sativa, Indica or a hybrid (a blend of the two).

Hybrid strains are made by combining Indica and Sativa plants. The hybrid strains possess characteristics of the dominant parent with fewer features of the secondary variety (Sativa-dominant vs Indica-dominant).

No matter what kind of strain you choose, you’ll still experience the relaxing, often euphoric effects, of THC. The important thing to remember is that as long as you’re avoiding low-quality cannabis, you can’t go wrong! The type of weed you choose should reflect your own preferences and the needs of your lifestyle. Denver Dispensary welcomes all newcomers and strives to provide the best experience possible when selecting your first strain of top-shelf bud. For more information about our shop and selection, visit our website. For more informational articles, check out our frequently updated blog!